October 14

Burden-bearing

Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. — Gal 6:2 BSB

In this passage, the Apostle is clearly speaking about the sins and failures into which people fall. We are not to rejoice over their missteps or gossip about them, but rather to consider our own vulnerability to temptation. We are called to be tender, gentle, and compassionate, helping to carry the burden of temptation, remorse, and shame. What a comfort this is for us, because if our Lord expects us to forgive and restore our brothers and sisters, we can be sure He will do the same for us!

But sin is not the only burden we are called to help bear. We are to support those who fail to meet expectations—whether a young person who struggles to succeed, a businessperson facing sudden failure, or someone suffering bitter disappointment. When others turn their backs or criticize, we should be the ones offering strong and tender sympathy. It’s like when Ananias entered Saul’s darkness with the words, “Brother Saul.”

We can also help carry the burden of grief—when a husband or wife suddenly passes away, or when children lose their mother and are left without care. In these situations, we have the opportunity to offer practical sympathy and help. Throughout His life, our Lord carried the burdens of the people, and we are called to follow His example. Sympathy means “suffering with,” and as we seek to share in the griefs and sorrows of others, we help lighten their load. You cannot bear another’s burden without feeling its weight, but in doing so, you may also find your own burdens lifted.

This was the law of Christ—the principle of His life and the precept He gave to His followers. And as we carry others’ burdens, we may discover that our own burdens diminish.

Prayer

For friends above, for friends still here below; for the rare, unseen connections between us; for hearts tuned to noble charity; for those toiling in the darkness; for hands reaching out in need; for every gracious thought, word, and deed; we thank You, Lord! Amen.